On Goa Liberation Day, find out who liberated 'Rome of the East'

Goa, Daman and Diu Liberation Day is observed on December 19 every year. On this day in 1961, the Indian Army captured Goa, which had been under Portuguese rule for some 451 years.

History of Goa Liberation Day:

Indian independence movement influenced the people of Goa in the 19th century.  During the 1940s, some Goans participated in Satyagraha.

Even post India's Independence in 1947, the Portuguese were not leaving the region of Goa. The Portuguese failing to negotiate resulted in the Indian government resorting to proceed with the military option to annex Goa.

The Portuguese arrived in Goa in 1510, establishing a foothold that lasted for centuries. Their rule brought about significant cultural influences, evident in the architecture, cuisine, and language of the region. However, it also involved economic exploitation, religious discrimination, and suppression of local freedoms.

Who is the hero of Goa Liberation Day?

Dr Ram Manohar Lohia is considered the hero of the day, as he led the Goa Liberation Movement. He gathered youth from the Goa region on June 18th 1946, to seek liberty. Today activist Dr Ram Manohar Lohia has many memorials and instituations named in his honour. These memorials Include:

• Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, in Faizabad
• Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, in Lucknow
• 18th June Road, in Panjim, Goa. On this day in 1946, he launched an agitation against colonial rule.
• Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, in New Delhi
• Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, in Lucknow
• Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya Bhawan community hall, in Ambedkar Nagar 

Celebrating the rich culture of Goa

Due to Goa's history, it has developed a rich and unique culture. The language, music, dressing style, architecture, and cuisine are all influenced by the culture of Portugal. Today is the perfect day to learn more about Goan culture and enjoy what it has to offer. Goa has organised many programs and events in honour of the special day. The celebrations in 2021 consisted of a Youth Parliament and a Women's parliament.